Palace Guards Orchestra in Orléans

© - DR

The Orchestra of the Palace Guards of H.S.H. the Sovereign Prince recently took part in the 589^th Joan of Arc Festival, which was held from 29 April to 8 May in Orléans and was attended by French Prime Minister Edouard Philippe. 

The city of Orléans hosts an 11-day annual festival to commemorate Joan of Arc, the heroine of its liberation in 1429. Between 29 April, the date Joan of Arc arrived in the city, and 8 May, the day on which the English siege was lifted, the regional capital beats to the rhythm of the festivities, including parades, performances, a medieval fair, and a DJ set. Every year, a young Orléans girl is chosen to play the role of Joan of Arc, taking part in the commemorations and leading the procession in the parade on 8 May, the high point of the festival which is watched by thousands of spectators.  

It was here, at the head of the procession, that the Palace Guards played their role, surprising and delighting the thousands of spectators lining the five-kilometre route through the streets of Orléans with their eclectic choice of repertoire, including some unusual choices for a military band. Next came Joan, on horseback and accompanied by her pages, followed by representatives from the regional and national authorities. It was an unprecedented experience, a brilliant performance delivered under the watchful eye of Colonel Luc Fringant, Supreme Commander of the Military Force.